A Quiet Place Will Leave You Speechless

A Quiet Place is the type of movie you see in silence through the silhouette of your fingers as you cower in your seat. From the very first emotionally charged opening scene of director John Krasinski’s first foray into the horror genre, audiences will feel invested in the story of the Abbott family. In this post-apocalyptic world, Lee Abbott – played by Krasinksi – his wife, Evelyn Abbott – played by Emily Blunt – and their three children attempt to survive by living as quietly and unobtrusively as they can. Unnamed and deathly monsters lie in wait for the next loud sound to draw them out of hiding.

This film strategically captures what horror is about: making the audience feel a part of the nerve-wracking fear exhibited on screen through suspense and suggestion. A Quiet Place is complimented by moments of pure silence, but the true scares come when your eardrums are pierced by the loud and jarring assault of noise. The sound editing is smoothly synchronized with the horror elements of the film.

Every performance is believable and earnest. Millicent Simmonds plays the headstrong eldest daughter – Regan Abbott – who is at a disadvantage due to her deafness, but who also refuses to allow it to endanger her family. She will be one to watch out for in future. Emily Blunt’s role as the protective and concerned mother is also one to note for her silent yet poignant moments. Imagine going through the pains of labor while also knowing that the risk of letting out a scream or even a cry for help might draw the attention of a deathly monster.

A Quiet Place follows the fame and success of another comedian turned horror director: Jordan Peele with his 2017 film Get Out. Kransinksi – mostly known for his famous role as Jim Halpert on the popular television series The Office – is expanding his repertoire, in much the same manner, to include screen writing and directing.

Due to the sparseness of the dialogue and the simplicity of the story, Krasinski was able to put together a chilling film with very little frills to take away from the main plot points. Overall, it is a great effort and an extremely smart move on his part. The film is a concise and unadorned horror thriller, which will leave audiences silent as the credits roll.

Kimberly Morles is a Senior at FIU majoring in English. She is pursuing a certificate in Exile and Film Studies.